Published at 1:03 PM EDT on Apr 28, 2011

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Kiwi-designer Karen Walker is one of few fashion folks creating clothing in two time zones and for two totally opposite fashion calendars, her native New Zealand entering its spring season while New Yorkers begin bundling for fall. Somehow, though, the indefatigable Walker never lets her unusual schedule slow her down: a dependably fabulous sense of style and quirky sense of humor have made her an international style icon. Unsurprisingly, the contents of her handbag were as stylish as she is.